What are the current criteria for initiating dual antiplatelet therapy after a minor acute ischemic stroke (NIHSS ≤ 3) or high‑risk transient ischemic attack (ABCD2 score ≥ 4) in patients who are not candidates for anticoagulation?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 18, 2026View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Related Questions

Is a loading dose of Plavix (clopidogrel) necessary in stroke patients?
What are the criteria for initiating dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin plus clopidogrel) in patients with acute ischemic stroke or high‑risk transient ischemic attack?
In an adult with a minor ischemic stroke (NIH Stroke Scale ≤ 3) or high‑risk transient ischemic attack presenting within 72 hours and no contraindications, should dual antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin be initiated, and what dosing and duration are recommended?
What is the role of clopidogrel (Plavix) in the management of Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
What is the role of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor, such as clopidogrel, in patients with a history of ischemic stroke?
Can I continue taking lemborexant 5 mg nightly for insomnia and baclofen 20 mg extended‑release twice daily for chronic upper and mid‑back muscle pain while initiating BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) therapy, given my fibromyalgia diagnosis and the possibility that my symptoms are actually due to Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS)?
What are the possible causes of an elevated alkaline phosphatase in an adult?
What is Behçet disease?
What is the appropriate fluconazole dosing regimen for oropharyngeal candidiasis in an otherwise healthy adult?
After a miscarriage, I experienced bleeding that resembled a period at 3.5 weeks post‑miscarriage but it stopped; when will the post‑miscarriage bleeding definitively cease?
In a patient with an acute ischemic stroke (no intracranial hemorrhage, no active bleeding or severe thrombocytopenia), when should antiplatelet therapy be started and what is the recommended first‑line regimen?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.